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U.S. Transportation Secretary Foxx Calls for Transportation Investment During Visit to I-49 North Segment K in Shreveport

Highlights Project’s Economic Impact as part of Invest in America Bus Tour

SHREVEPORT, La. – U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx today joined state and local officials at the “Segment K” I-49 extension project as part of his Invest in America, Commit to the Future bus tour, calling it an investment in Louisiana’s economic future that could be replicated across the country if Congress would support a long-term transportation bill. “Segment K” is part of a corridor that, when completed, will connect the ports of Shreveport and New Orleans to markets around the world. The Secretary’s visit is part of a multi-state tour highlighting the urgent need to invest in America’s transportation infrastructure at a time when the nation’s surface transportation programs are set to expire and the Highway Trust Fund is running out of money.

“Our nation needs more projects like the I-49 extension, which will help businesses thrive and economic growth flourish,” said Secretary Foxx. “If Congress passes a multi-year transportation bill this year, more projects like this one can get started all across the country.”

The $150-$175 million Segment K project, which relies on $42 million in federal funding, completes a missing link on this section of interstate, and is part of a 30-mile-long project that the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LADOTD) has spent eight years developing. It will include roadway improvements along MLK Drive and service roads on the I-49 Bridge, including approaches, ramps and sound walls. Upon completion, the entire I-49 Corridor will improve shippers’ ability to move goods quickly and safely nationwide, and promote Louisiana’s economic growth by opening the state to new or expanded commercial opportunities.

After visiting the project, Secretary Foxx spoke about the Administration’s plan to address the infrastructure deficit with a $302 billion, four-year surface transportation reauthorization proposal. The plan will invest in our national infrastructure network, increase safety and efficiency and provide greater access to ladders of opportunity, all without adding to the deficit. Later this month, Secretary Foxx and President Obama will send a bill to Congress that will make this vision a reality and put more Americans back to work repairing and modernizing our roads, bridges, railways, and transit systems.

“Throughout our history, Americans have always been able to leave their children a brighter future, thanks in part to the opportunities transportation has provided,” said Secretary Foxx. “We are at risk of failing our children. We need to not only invest in America, but commit to the future – not only rebuild and repair our roads and bridges, but reimagine how we do it.”

Secretary Foxx’s Invest in America, Commit to the Future bus tour is taking him through eight states in five days. The tour includes visits to manufacturers, bridges, freight facilities and highway projects in an effort to raise awareness of America’s infrastructure needs. Secretary Foxx is visiting with business leaders, stakeholders and community members to discuss how transportation projects are making a difference, and to highlight infrastructure gaps that we need to fill in order to promote economic growth and American competitiveness.

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